Thursday, October 23, 2008

WHY TAPPING WORKS: Speculations from the Observable Brain

WHY TAPPING WORKS: Speculations from the Observable Brain

by Ronald A. Ruden, M.D., Ph.D.  

ABSTRACT
A new therapy for phobias, PTSD, addictive behaviors and other psychological issues was first described by Dr. Roger Callahan and involves thought activation of the problem followed by tapping on certain acupoints in a specific sequence.  For most cases, the problems were reportedly cured in a matter of minutes. We speculate on a neuroanatomical and neurophysiological mechanism for this technique. We propose that tapping and other sensory stimulation increase serotonin in both the prefrontal cortex and the amygdala. The success of this technique requires that glutamate be first increased in the circuit by activating affect.  We suggest the name 'Affect Activation/Sensory Stimulation' to encompass this general approach. AA/SS represents a paradigm shift for the treatment of these problems. Read on

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